According to a study released in March 2012 by the nonprofit Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, first-time drunk drivers are less likely to get behind the wheel again after drinking if they have to install interlock devices. In 2011, nearly 9,900 people were killed in drunk driving crashes in the U.S., according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.įirst-time offenders have driven drunk an average of 80 times before they’re convicted, MADD says. Sarah Longwell, managing director of the American Beverage Institute, said in a statement in January 2012 that requiring interlock devices only for drunk drivers with high blood-alcohol levels or repeat convictions “is a more effective and financially sound way to fight drunk driving.” The group says first-time drunk drivers – “even those just one sip over the legal limit” – shouldn’t be forced to install the devices. On the flip side of the issue, the American Beverage Institute, which represents restaurants, bars, alcohol suppliers and alcohol producers, says ignition interlocks should be used as punishment only for hard-core drunk drivers, not for first-time offenders. Congress, the Obama administration and the NTSB “are taking decisive action to end the violent crime of drunk driving,” Jan Withers, national president of MADD, said in a statement. Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) applauded the NTSB recommendation. “It’s time for the other 33 states to step up for safety and require ignition interlocks for all offenders,” Hersman said.įor that to happen, legislators in each of those states would have to pass laws mandating it. Who should have to install interlock devices?Ĭurrently, 17 states require interlock devices for first-time drunk drivers.
Hersman said at a hearing in Washington, D.C.
“The first step to address the number one killer on our roadways is to do what is proven to be effective – use interlocks for all DWI offenders,” NTSB Chairwoman Deborah A.P. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) wants every first-time drunk driver in every state to be required to install an ignition interlock device – which prevents a vehicle from starting if a certain amount of alcohol is detected on the driver’s breath – in his or her car. Home » Articles NTSB recommends ignition interlock devices for all first-time drunk drivers
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